Japan set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
